Abstract

<p>In the region 6709–2302A the wavelengths of sixty lines in the first spectra of the even isotopes of mercury, <sub>80</sub>Hg<sup>198</sup> and <sub>80</sub>Hg<sup>202</sup>, have been measured relative to 5460.7532A. Electrodeless tubes (see reference 3) containing 0.5 mg of mercury were excited by radio waves of 90- to 300-mc frequency. Comparison with the data of Meggers and Kessler (see reference 5) shows the median difference AOW-MK to be 0.0001A. A comparison of the wavelength and level systems of the two isotopes confirms our opinion that the spectrum of natural mercury may be useful as a source of secondary standards, since the isotope shift of the odd level 6p <sup>1</sup>P<sub>1</sub>° is nearly the same as that of several even levels.</p><p>We are indebted to Director Condon and Dr. Meggers of the National Bureau of Standards for a sample of <sub>80</sub>Hg<sup>198</sup> which was derived from radioactive gold in cooperation with the United States Atomic Energy Commission. The sample of <sub>80</sub>Hg<sup>202</sup> was produced by Carbide and Carbon Chemical Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Y-12 Area and obtained on allocation from the Isotopes Division of the AEC.</p>

References

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